Pandemics cover a wide geographic area and affect a large proportion of the population. When a new virus emerges it can easily be spread person-to-person, causing serious illness for which there is little or no immunity in the human population worldwide.

To protect yourself and others during a pandemic:

Practice frequent hand washing; wash thoroughly for 15-20 seconds.

Use a disposable tissue when coughing or sneezing.

Carry a small bottle of antibacterial hand sanitizer to use when hand washing is not accessible.

If ill, stay home from work, avoid public activities and keep your distance from family members.

Keep your distance from others who appear to be ill.

Avoid travel to areas with known outbreaks whenever possible.

Listen to local media and Public Health Department officials for detailed information and updates on a pandemic including symptoms, treatments, course of treatment action, and known cases existing in your area.

Create and maintain a family preparedness kit with water, food and medical prescriptions sufficient for a two-week period.